Banks across India are urging customers to make advance arrangements for their financial transactions, including EMI payments, in anticipation of a three-day nationwide strike. The United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU) has called for the strike, scheduled to run from Monday, September 28, to Wednesday, September 30, 2026.
Prepare for Disruptions: Banks Advise Customers
With the impending strike, banks are proactively communicating with their customers to minimize inconvenience. Bank of India (BOI) has specifically issued an advisory, asking account holders to ensure sufficient funds for scheduled EMI payments or to pay them in advance to prevent any defaults. The bank emphasized the availability of digital payment options for continuous service.
"Dear Customer, due to upcoming bank strike, pls pay your EMI in advance/keep balance in your payment a/c to avoid any default. You can make payment digitally," BOI stated in a message to its customers.
Customers are also encouraged to complete any critical banking transactions before the strike dates. For urgent cash requirements during the strike, individuals are advised to utilize ATMs, Cash Recycler Machines (CRMs), and Business Correspondent (BC) points. Digital platforms such as internet banking, mobile banking, and UPI services are expected to operate normally and are recommended for use.
State Bank of India Issues Similar Advisory
India's largest public sector lender, State Bank of India (SBI), has also issued a similar advisory. SBI has encouraged its customers to plan ahead and conclude important transactions before the strike period. The bank reassured customers that services via ATMs/ADWMs, CSPs, YONO SBI, and other digital channels would remain accessible.
Expected Impact on Banking Services
The three-day strike is expected to significantly disrupt services at bank branches across the country. Customers may face difficulties with over-the-counter cash deposits and withdrawals, physical passbook updates, and other services that require manual processing or in-person visits.
- Cash Services: Limited access to cash deposits and withdrawals at branches.
- Cheque Processing: Delays in cheque clearing and processing are highly likely.
- New Demand Drafts: Availability of fresh demand drafts from branches may be affected.
- Account Updates: Difficulties with physical passbook updates and other branch-specific services.
Public sector banks and regional rural banks are anticipated to experience the most significant impact from the strike. In contrast, private-sector banks are generally expected to see comparatively less disruption to their operations.
Strike Coincides with Financial Closing
Adding to the potential complexity, the strike dates immediately precede the half-yearly financial closing on September 30, a critical period for banks. This timing could amplify the impact of the service disruptions on both banks and their customers.